Newcastle United boss Steve Bruce is confident signing Arsenal midfielder Joe Willock.

Sky Sports says Bruce is hoping that Emile Smith Rowe signing a new long-term deal at Arsenal will now convince the Gunners to let Willock go permanently.

Smith Rowe, who has been a target for Aston Villa all summer, put pen to paper on his new Arsenal deal on Thursday afternoon and was handed the club's iconic No 10 shirt, previously worn by the likes of Dennis Bergkamp, Mesut Ozil, Jack Wilshere and Robin van Persie.

Smith Rowe shone for Arsenal in what was a turbulent 2020-21 campaign, with his fine form meaning they could ship Willock out on loan to Newcastle, and he is set to be a key player once again next term.

Smith Rowe and Wllock could well compete for the same starting spot in attacking midfield under Mikel Arteta next season.

But now after securing a new contract for their academy star, the Gunners may be more receptive about Willock leaving the club this summer.